The fourth edition of this concise textbook offers students a comprehensive introduction to the politics, economy, culture and society of modern China, while grounding all of these areas in the context of China's recent history in the 19th and 20th centuries. Fully up to date, this accessible text examines key developments that are shaping China's place in the world today, including the Xi Jinping era, a complete update on the position of Hong Kong, international relations with the US and Latin America, and Chinese outward investment and financial internationalisation.

Authored by a highly-regarded expert on the topic, the book is an ideal introductory text for undergraduate and postgraduate courses on China studies and contemporary China, regardless of whether students approach the topic from a political, historical, sociological, cultural or geographical viewpoint. It can also be used on modules focussing more specifically on Chinese politics, Chinese history or Chinese society.

New to this edition:
- Coverage of the pandemic and recent protests
- A brand new chapter on China's environmental challenges
- Attention to the management of Xinjiang
- Full updates on the impact of the Russia–Ukraine war and the conflict in the Middle East